Nominations sought for county ambassadors as Norfolk Rural Business Awards return

Farmers, food and drink producers, tourism attractions and others that champion our county will be recognised as the Norfolk Rural Business Awards returns for its second year.

A call has gone out for nominations after the awards were officially announced at the Norfolk Farming Conference held at Norfolk Showground on Tuesday 11 February.

The awards were launched last year by Norfolk County Council in partnership with the Royal Norfolk Agricultural Association and the winners were congratulated by HRH Prince Edward following the ceremony.

Each of the nine categories will have a specialist judging panel who will follow up with those shortlisted before making their final decision. Winners will be announced at the Royal Norfolk Show in June.

The nine categories are:

• Best Rural Community Initiative (sponsored by Aviva Community Foundation)
• Best Farming Innovation Adopter (sponsored by Lovewell Blake)
• Best Food and Drink Producer (sponsored by Fountain Fresh Imports)
• Norfolk's Unsung Hero (sponsored by Poultec)
• Best Farming Champion (sponsored by CLG Norfolk)
• Best Emerging Talent (sponsored by PlantGrow) 
• Best Rural Business (sponsored by New Anglia Growth Hub) 
• Best Sustainable Land Use (sponsored by Birketts) 
• Best Rural Tourism Attraction (sponsored by Thursford) 

Cllr Fabian Eagle, cabinet member for economic growth at Norfolk County Council said: "We are blessed to have so many inspiring and innovative businesses in our rural areas and these awards are a brilliant opportunity to showcase them.

"Applications are now open, and we want to hear from people, businesses and organisations that fly the flag for Norfolk throughout the year."

Mark Nicholas, Chief Executive of the Royal Norfolk Agricultural Association commented: "Everyone is genuinely excited about the Norfolk Rural Business Awards and this really is an opportunity for us all to join forces, highlight what is great about Norfolk and really shout about it!"

The closing date for applications is Monday 21 April and the final shortlist will be announced in May.

Find out how to apply by visiting Norfolk Rural Business Awards